Beef Sausage Chili Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas

Welcome, chili lovers and newcomers alike! I’m here to take you on a delicious journey into the land of beef sausage chili. 

It's a chilly evening, and the aroma of sizzling sausages, spicy chili powder, and savory bacon fills your kitchen. This isn’t just any bowl of chili; it’s packed with flavors, textures, and just enough kick to warm you from the inside out.

I learned to make this recipe from family gatherings. Over time, I’ve tweaked it until it was just right. The trick lies in the balance of spices, the combination of meats, and a few secret ingredients that’ll stay between us.

What is Beef Sausage Chili?

At its core, beef sausage chili is a comforting stew made by combining ground beef, Italian sausage, and various beans in a rich, tomato-based sauce. 

It's a versatile dish that welcomes customization, allowing anyone to make it their own. Whether you like it extra spicy or more on the mild side, this recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious.

Flavor Profile of This Dish

When you take that first bite, you’ll notice the smoky undertones from the bacon intertwining seamlessly with the savory beef and sausage. 

The chili powder brings the heat, assertive yet balanced, while the tomatoes offer a sweet acidity. With beans adding creaminess and the aromatic spices—cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika—the combined flavors create a dish that's rich, hearty, and downright addictive.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Beef Sausage Chili Recipes?

What sets this chili apart is the meticulous layering of flavors. Instead of solely relying on chili powder, I incorporate a variety of spices and ingredients to build depth. 

The inclusion of bacon adds a delightful crunch and richness that’s often missing in traditional recipes. The mixture of beans not only completes the dish nutritionally but also adds varied textures, making every mouthful interesting.

Ingredients You'll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need for this mouth-watering beef sausage chili:

• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 2 pounds of lean ground beef (with 5% fat content)
• 1 pound of mild bulk Italian sausage (casings removed)
• ½ pound of crispy bacon, chopped
• 2 (15 oz) cans of kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) can of pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 (28 oz) cans of diced tomatoes in their juice
• 1 (6 oz) can of rich tomato paste
• 2 cups of savory beef broth
• 3 tablespoons of chili powder blend
• 1 tablespoon of gluten-free Worcestershire sauce (or omit if needed)
• 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar

Step-by-Step Directions

Now, let’s roll into the kitchen. This chili doesn’t take an entire afternoon to prepare, and I promise it’s worth every moment spent. Here’s how to make it happen.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they soften. The aroma begins to build, and your friends will start sniffing the air.

Step 2: Add the Meats

Next, toss in the ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped bacon into the pot. Stir it well, breaking apart any clumps of beef. Cook this mixture until the meats are browned and cooked through, roughly 8-10 minutes. You’ll notice that beautiful brown color forming, which is a sign of flavor.

Step 3: Mix in the Spices

Once the meats are perfect, add the minced garlic, chili powder blend, dried oregano, ground cumin, dried basil, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Stir everything together, letting it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This step allows the spices to toast lightly, releasing their oils and creating a wonderful fragrance.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Beans

Now it’s time to bring the tomatoes and beans into the mix. Add those two cans of diced tomatoes along with their juices, the tomato paste, all three cans of drained beans, and pour in the beef broth. This is the moment when things start looking like the hearty chili you’re going to love.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Stir everything together well. Then, pour in the Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Whoa, brown sugar? Yes! It balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you notice a little separation, don’t worry; this is just the flavors mingling.

Step 7: Serve!

Once the chili has thickened to your liking, it’s time to ladle it into bowls. Top with your favorite accompaniments like avocado, sour cream, or fresh herbs. Dive in!

Tips on Making Beef Sausage Chili

Here are some valuable tips to nail this chili recipe every time:

• Choose the Right Meat: Use quality, lean ground beef for the best flavor without excessive fat.
• Precook the Bacon: Fry the bacon until crispy before adding it to the pot to achieve the best texture.
• Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference. If you love spice, consider adding jalapeños!
• Allow for Resting Time: After cooking, let the chili rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld even more.
• Batch Cooking: Make a big batch. Chili freezes well. Store leftovers in airtight containers for quick meals later.

How Can I Store This Beef Sausage Chili Recipe?

Storing this chili is straightforward. Here’s how to do it right:

• Refrigeration: Let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It will last up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: If you plan to freeze, portion the chili in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm it on the stove or microwave.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

If you find yourself short on a few ingredients, don’t panic! Here are some substitutes that work just as well:

• Ground beef substitute: Ground turkey or chicken are lighter options and still hearty. It will change the flavor slightly but remains delicious.
• Bacon alternative: If you don’t have bacon, try using smoked sausage or turkey bacon for a leaner option, though it may alter the texture.
• Bean variation: If you lack certain beans, chickpeas or white beans work great. Both will add unique flavors and textures.
• Tomato paste option: In a pinch, crushed tomatoes can replace tomato paste, just reduce the amount of broth a bit to compensate for the extra liquid.

Conclusion

Homemade beef sausage chili is a comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any meal. By layering flavors and choosing quality ingredients, you create a dish that both nourishes and satisfies. 

Whether you're hosting a game night or enjoying a cozy evening in, this chili will surely impress. So grab your pot, follow these steps, and let the magic happen. Get ready for mouthfuls of flavor that will keep you coming back for more! Your taste buds will thank you.

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